Sassy Reviews

April 6, 2025

Soulbound: Destiny’s Move

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Soulbound: Destiny’s Move 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Amanda Albery ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Soulbound: Destiny’s Move” by Amanda Albery is a captivating and intense read. The story centers around Olivia Ryan, who leads a quiet, secluded life in the Appalachian Mountains of East Tennessee.

However, her peace is shattered when old nightmares resurface—dark visions that seem to foreshadow tragic events. The people around her are haunted by an unbearable loss. One of the most chilling visions involves Savannah, whose body is found brutally battered, her lifeless eyes staring into the moonlight. When Savannah was found dead, Olivia was scared to see her mutilated body. Death seems to stalk Olivia’s dreams and her town alike.

After her parents perish in a plane crash during an anniversary trip to Vegas, Olivia is left with a sizable inheritance. Her mother once joked that Olivia had no hormones—but that assumption is proven wrong when she meets Nikolas Riggs and Tristan Rilz. Both men awaken intense feelings within her, and she finds herself caught in a pull between them and the dangerous world they inhabit.

This story had me hooked from the very first page. The pacing is excellent, the characters are well-developed, and the setting is vividly brought to life. The title fits perfectly, and the cover is visually appealing. I couldn’t put it down until I turned the last page.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

April 5, 2025

Feelings Fruit Friends

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Feelings Fruit Friends 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Giavonna Halley ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Few books have the ability to captivate a reader from the very first page, and “Feelings Fruit Friends”, written by Giavonna Halley and illustrated by Sterlin Griffin is one of them.

The story introduces a colorful group of fruit-shaped characters, each embodying a different emotion. These characters are lively and charming, with each fruit showcasing a unique personality.

For instance, the honeydew creates playful bubbles, the angry apple stirs up mischief, and the sad strawberry sheds large tears. These emotional portrayals help toddlers easily relate to and understand how they can express their own feelings.

With its fun and educational approach, the book emphasizes that all emotions—whether happy, angry, or sad—are valid and should be communicated, especially with parents.

The book is well-written, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I highly recommend it for little ones without hesitation. The title is fitting and adds to the charm.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

April 5, 2025

Interview with author Peter Pappas

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A1. Hello my name is Peter Pappas and this is my first published work! When I’m not writing I love: yoga, working out, jogging, playing with my cat and dog, traveling, going to theme parks, hitting up the beach, and playing with legos!

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “The Wizard of Starz”?

A2. Organizing my ideas. Especially since TWOS is book 1 in what will be a series, I wanted to keep writing but knew that I had to stop somewhere and save content for book #2. When you have the whole story in your head, it can be hard to break it down into one book at a time! Another challenge I faced was editing, and having to re-read 357 pages, dozens of times. After a while, my eyes began to play tricks on me 🙂

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A3. First and foremost I am a huge Stephen King fan. I was definitely very inspired by both ‘The Shining’ and ‘Doctor Sleep’. Growing up, the first series that got me into reading was-Harry Potter and that will forever be in my heart and soul. Thank you J.K. Rowling!

Most recently I became a fan of Sarah J. Maas and ‘A Court of Thorns and Roses’ series. I really like the way she writes and her attention to detail was what I channeled when writing TWOS. I wanted to make the reader feel like they were in another world by stimulating their senses.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A4. I know this is cheesy but I absolutely love going to Universal Studios and spending time at ‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’. I have a collection of Wands and enjoy casting spells in the park. The rides are incredible, too!

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The Wizard of Starz’?

A5. I think it’s a story I’ve been writing my whole life. I’ve had so many journals and diaries and I’m constantly writing my inner feelings. I think I traveled to Starland In my dreams or maybe even a past life, too. Writing the book felt natural and real because , in a sense, it’s a piece of my personal journey.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘The Wizard of Starz’?

A6. About a year and 1/2 .

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Readers can purchase TWOS off of my website http://www.peter-pappas.com. They can also find it directly on Amazon.comand direct-download on Kindle too.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Wizard of Starz’?

A8. I came up with several mock covers – almost a collage of what I wanted, based on what I felt were key elements in the story that I wanted to showcase. I went into the forest and took pictures of trees and myself standing in the forest pretending to be the main character. Then I took my ideas to the graphic designer at my publishing company (Native Publishing- ASP) and we worked together to make it happen. I love how the colors turned out and how spooky the cover is. Once you read the book you will understand everything about it too. I love when books have a cover that allows you to just glance at it and get a snapshot of the most exciting elements of the story!

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

A9. I keep things fresh by using dialogue that will resonate with today’s generation. Using Words like: “Sus” and “Totes” and giving readers characters that they feel like they have met in real life, based on how people act and talk in today’s world.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. Don’t overthink it. Nothing will ever be “Perfect” or “Right” and to stay true to your idea and not stray. Don’t second guess yourself.

Book is available on Amazon

April 5, 2025

A Journey of Perspective

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: A Journey of Perspective 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Dune Stewart ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
A Journey of Perspective by Dune Stewart is a compelling and heartfelt read. Through this book, the author shares poetic reflections on themes such as depression, anxiety, body image, and the lifelong quest for identity.

The poem Lost Brother is dedicated to Kirby, someone the author considered a brother. His sudden, unexplained departure leaves a deep ache, made even more painful by the realization that he won’t be coming back.

In My Dreams paints a vivid picture of a girl dancing in a white dress in a small apartment. She’s in love with the author, and through her, he finds a renewed sense of purpose.

Staying Comfortable encourages readers to step out of their comfort zones. It reminds us that exploring new environments can shift our focus outward, helping to quiet the inner voice of self-criticism.

This book is a beacon of hope for those who feel lost. It gently assures readers that healing, though it may seem distant, is always possible. With a blend of emotions—grief, love, loss, self-worth—Stewart’s work offers space for introspection and invites readers to pursue clarity and peace in their lives.

The author’s writing style is simple yet impactful, making it easy to connect with. I found myself relating deeply to many of the emotions expressed throughout the book.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

April 5, 2025April 5, 2025

Nothing Spoil

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: 📚 Nothing Spoil
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: ✍️ Kelvin Alaneme
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: Nothing Spoil is a captivating story about resilience, survival, and the struggles of everyday life.

Stella, a young Nigerian woman, never imagined that helping a stranger for just one night would change her life forever. When she offers shelter to Jide, a stranded man, it leads to an unexpected disaster. Her relationship with her boyfriend, Dan, falls apart, and soon after, she faces an even bigger challenge—testing positive for HIV and becoming a single mother. Despite all the struggles she endures, she crosses paths with Dan again. However, any hope of rekindling their love fades when she learns that he is engaged and preparing for his wedding.

Just as Dan’s wedding draws near, he is suddenly kidnapped. Determined to help him, Stella takes matters into her own hands, but her efforts backfire as she ends up being captured as well. It is only then that the horrifying truth comes to light—they have fallen into the hands of a dangerous international organ-trafficking syndicate. Held hostage in an unknown place, they are surrounded by danger with no clear way out. What started as an attempt to rescue Dan quickly turns into a desperate battle for survival.

Now, trapped in a terrifying situation, Stella and Dan must find a way to escape before it is too late. Their past troubles seem insignificant compared to the life-threatening reality they now face. With every moment filled with fear and uncertainty, they realize that survival is the only thing that matters. This book is a gripping and emotional tale of love, choices, and fate, showing how a single moment can change everything forever.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

April 4, 2025April 4, 2025

The Headmaster

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Headmaster 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Andy Russo ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The Headmaster by Andy Russo is a gripping thriller that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. The story follows Sheriff James Landry, who is called to investigate when a fisherman discovers a headless body.

The victim is identified as John Boy, a recently released man who was acquitted of a molestation case due to insufficient evidence. As Sheriff Landry delves deeper, he uncovers a chilling pattern—four similar, unsolved decapitation cases spanning the past seven years.

Realizing a serial killer is on the loose, he seeks assistance from the FBI. Agents Enzo Romano and Lisa Rodriguez join the investigation and uncover a startling connection—all the victims had been prosecuted by the same district attorney, Travis Hale. To find out what happens next, you’ll have to read the book.

The story is fast-paced and kept me on edge throughout. The cover is striking, the title compelling, and the characters well-developed. The unexpected twists and turns held my interest until the very last page. Russo’s writing is exceptional, making this a must-read for thriller fans.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

April 3, 2025April 3, 2025

Interview with author William Grace

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A1. William Grace has been a busboy, a bank messenger, an editor, a trial lawyer, and a United States Marine. A lifelong martial artist, he holds the rank of 4th Degree Black Belt in Okinawa Shorin-Ryu Karate. He lives in the Pacific Northwest, where he is currently at work on the Omniverse Chronicles.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Bloodline”?

A2. The greatest challenge was bringing Charley Floyd into the late 20th Century. How would a man who died in 1934 cope with the world as it was in 1998? Charley was truly “a stranger in a strange land.”

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A3. To name just a few: Andersonville, by Mackinlay Kantor; Something of Value and The Old Man and the Boy, by Robert Ruark; The Grapes of Wrath and Tortilla Flat, by John Steinbeck; the late Dewey Lambdin’s Alan Lewrie novels; The King Must Die, by Mary Renault; The Flashman novels, and Quartered Safe Out Here, by George McDonald Fraser; Robert A. Heinlein’s Starship Troopers; and The Long Ships, by Franz G. Bengtsson.

Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A4. Northern California’s Wine Country, where I lived until my family moved to San Francisco.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Bloodline’?

A5. I wanted a change from the characters and story line of my first novels, and Bloodline was born.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Bloodline’?

A6. Bloodline went through five drafts before I was reasonably satisfied with it. From start to finish, the book took slightly more than fourteen months. I am a perfectionist, and I do a great deal of research. I am always searching for le bon mot juste.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Only Amazon at present.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Bloodline’?

A8. The book cover was a collaboration between a very talented Australian artist, a gorgeous model, and myself. Jackie Thornton is Jack Thornton’s niece, and she is mentioned in Eternal Hero. They share the same dark heritage: hence the title, Bloodline.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

A9. I am always learning and open to new ideas. I also find that having other interests is of great benefit. Doing something like Karate clears out the cobwebs and allows me to stay focused.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. Write, then write some more. Keep writing. Keep writing. Keep writing. Never stop writing.

Buy Bloodline on Amazon

April 2, 2025

Fight and Protect

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Fight and Protect 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Rowan James ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Fight and Protect” by Rowan James is a captivating read. The story follows Andrea Monroe, who is on the run from a dangerous past while seeking a fresh start in Boston. She lands a job after an interview with Gabriel Ashford.

Andrea soon discovers that Gabriel has his own private security team, separate from the building’s security. The team is led by Jordan Whelan, who, upon running a background check, finds out that Andrea’s real name is Andrea Brookes—yet little else is known about her past. Despite this, Gabriel isn’t concerned. He values Andrea’s presence, both professionally and personally, as she brings him a sense of comfort.

To uncover how far Jordan will go to dig into Andrea’s past, you’ll have to read the book. I thoroughly enjoyed it—the suspense kept me on edge, eager to see what would happen next. The pacing is excellent, with no dull moments, and Andrea’s character is well-developed. This book is definitely worth the read!

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

April 1, 2025

Lunch Tales: Suellen

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Lunch Tales: Suellen 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Lucille Guarino ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Lunch Tales: Suellen by Lucille Guarino is an engaging and immersive novel that captivates readers from the very beginning. The story follows Suellen, a 28-year-old attorney who has grown up in luxury, thanks to her family’s immense wealth. Her great-grandfather made strategic investments in Manhattan’s tenant properties, passing down a fortune that Suellen now enjoys.

Suellen’s love life is complicated—her relationship with Steve has been tumultuous, marked by frequent breakups and reconciliations. Their most recent split, however, comes as a relief to her father, who never approved of Steve as a potential husband. Soon after she reconnects with Adam, a childhood friend from her elementary school days. Both of them find themselves single, raising the question of whether their renewed friendship will blossom into something deeper.

As Suellen’s story unfolds, she is confronted with an unexpected and life-changing event—she discovers a lump in her breast. This moment introduces a profound and emotional turning point in her life. How will she handle this new reality, and what impact will it have on her relationships?

Lucille Guarino’s writing is smooth and engaging, making this novel an enjoyable and effortless read. Suellen is a well-developed and likable character, drawing readers into her world with ease. The pacing of the story is well-balanced, ensuring that there are no dull moments. The book’s cover is visually striking, and the title is fitting for the narrative.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

March 31, 2025

The Crinkling on a Poisonous Pie

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Crinkling on a Poisonous Pie 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Phillip Leighton-Daly ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Crinkling on a Poisonous Pie,” authored by Phillip Leighton-Daly, offers a distinctive and thought-provoking read. It follows the colonization of two planets, Kaire and Greyce. Over time, the inhabitants of Greyce altered their religious beliefs to align with their newfound prosperity, embracing the idea that “We are all sinners, and we are all forgiven.”

As wealth, pleasure, and power took center stage in Greycian society, intelligence became secondary to physical appearance. Their leader, the self-proclaimed prophet known as The Anointed One, guided them down a path of indulgence, while the planet’s once-rich wildlife was quickly driven to extinction.

In stark contrast, life on Kaire is built on a different principle—here, a person’s legacy is defined by their contributions to the world.

What fate awaits Greyce as greed and excess consume its people? This compelling story serves as a mirror to our own world, reminding readers of the powerful influence of wealth and ambition. With its unique storyline, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon